Bolivia Aramayo Family Java Washed

JAVA ROSITA

Finca Rosita is situated in the Illimani community within the beautiful region of Caranavi, Bolivia. Covering 32 hectares, the farm is entirely dedicated to coffee cultivation, growing a variety of beans including Java, Catuai, Geisha, Typica, and Pink Bourbon. These coffee varieties are meticulously nurtured under the ideal conditions provided by the farm's unique microclimate. Named in honor of Rosa Angelica Aramayo, the matriarch of the Valverde-Aramayo family, Finca Rosita reflects the rich agricultural heritage of the region. The landscape around the farm transitions rapidly, featuring large plantations of potatoes and quinoa alongside expansive coffee fields, plantains, and yucca, showcasing the diverse agricultural potential of the Andean terrain.

Caranavi rose to prominence in coffee production during the 1960s, following Bolivia's agricultural reform, with peak exports occurring in the 1990s due to substantial investments from the private sector. Initially, the focus was on volume rather than quality; however, significant investments in the early 2000s by international development agencies, including USAID, shifted this focus towards producing high-quality coffee as an alternative to coca cultivation. Although many of these agencies have since withdrawn, organizations like the German development agency GIZ continue to support local coffee producers. Recently, both the Municipality of Caranavi and Bolivia's central government have invested in coffee production through quality competitions and subsidized seedling programs, further incentivizing local farmers.

Over the past 15 years, coffee has become integral to Caranavi's identity and culture, with the town square proudly proclaiming it as the "Bolivian Coffee Capital." Coffee shops proliferate throughout the area, and frequent coffee events and competitions foster a sense of pride among coffee farmers, many of whom are from a new, younger generation. Additionally, the region produces a variety of fruits, including pineapples and citrus, with farmers often selling their produce at local markets or through a barter system. During the coffee harvest season, the bustling activity in Caranavi is evident, as producers transport their coffee cherries using modified Toyota Ipsums. While smaller farms rely on family labor, larger producers often hire harvesters, creating a competitive labor market. As technology advances, most farmers now have smartphones, allowing them to stay updated on industry trends and explore innovative processing methods.